:: Ten-Point Window Inspection ::

HOW DO I KNOW IF IT IS TIME TO REPLACE MY WINDOWS?
Our inspectors are often asked this question by homeowners. While there is never a right or wrong answer, we have developed a ten-point inspection process that helps identify potential problems.

This information may help you determine if it is time to replace some or all of your windows.

1. AGE OF EXISTING WINDOWS
What is the age of your home? Are the windows the ones that were originally installed when your home was built? Like all products in your home, windows are designed to last up to fifty years with proper care. Aluminum and steel.

2. CHECK FOR DRAFTS
Air movement through poorly weather-stripped windows is a major source of energy loss. Do curtains or drapes around your windows move when the wind blows? Inspect the weather-stripping in your windows. Is it worn or missing? Are there gaps in the corners?

3. COLD OR HOT FRAMES
Put your hand on the frame of one of your existing windows. Does it feel cold to the touch in the winter or hot in the summer? You may be loosing energy through conduction. Aluminum and steel frame windows are notorious for high levels of conductivity through the frame. Vinyl frame dual glazed windows are about three times as energy efficient as metal framed single pane windows.

4. CONDENSATION
Does condensation appear on your windows in the morning? If your windows are the coldest surface in your home, warm moist air from the kitchen or bathroom will condense on the inside surface of the glass or fame. This means your windows are loosing energy.

If your windows are dual pane and condensation appears between the two panes of glass, the seal on your insulating glass unit has failed and will need to be replaced.

5. MILDEW
Look for sign of mildew around the inside of the window. Mildew on the sill or inside jambs is usually the result of excessive condensation. Over time this can lead to dry rot and expensive structural repairs.

6. LEAKING
Water that leaks through your window frames runs down the inside wall surface. This can cause damage to sheet rock and carpets. Look for any of the following: stains on the windowsill or walls below the window, or wet carpet when it rains. If you observe any of these signs, you should replace your windows immediately.

7. OPERATION
Do your windows lock properly? Windows that do not meet current security codes can leave you and your family vulnerable. Windows that are worn out do not provide smooth or easy operation. Sliding glass doors usually get far more use than windows and consequently wear out much more quickly.

8. APPEARANCE
Decorative window Treatments can beautify your home and increase its value. Do your windows look dated? Would new windows or new window styles improve your home's appearance and value? Bay windows are one of the most popular items for home improvement projects.

9. EGRESS
Fire safety codes require operable windows in every bedroom large enough to allow a person to escape in the event of a fire, or to allow a fireman access to the bedroom through the window. Bedroom windows that are not large enough or do not open properly should be considered for replacement.

10. SAFETY GLASS
National safety glazing codes require glass in a sliding door or inside a bath area to be tempered. Safety glass in these areas protects you and your family against serious injury from breaking glass. If your windows or doors do not have safety glass where required, you should replace them.

SOLUTIONS MAY BE EASIER THAN YOU THINK!
Replacing your windows does not have to be a major project. New installation techniques make it possible to replace the windows in most homes in a SINGLE DAY!

• No cutting stucco!

• No tearing out walls!

• Interior and exterior trim is simple, quick, and beautiful!

• Easily affordable!

:: Serving Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, CA ::

Martinelli's Home Improvement Company has built a reputation for offering it's customers service that is second to none with products that perform for years to come.  Martinelli's is a licensed and bonded company and carries a $1,000,000.00 Liability Policy for your protection.  We are proud to offer you the finest installation crew available.